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Things to do by Fort Lauderdale Port in Under 5 Hours

It’s your first time sailing out of Florida’s sunny Fort Lauderdale Port, and you’re trying to kill time before your vacation. You can’t do anything too time consuming because you can’t miss your cruise, yet you don’t want to spend 5 hours watching Oprah reruns in your hotel room. So what can you do that will make time fly, but still secure your spot on the cruise? Here are a few attractions you can visit that won’t cause you to sprint towards a departing ship!

5. Galleria Mall

2414 E Sunrise Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304

(954) 564-1015

Trying to get some holiday shopping out of the way? If so, Galleria Mall is the way to go. Located about fifteen minutes from Fort Lauderdale Port, this mall is well equipped with a variety of shops to buy gifts from everyone in your family, such as little cousins or your great grandma. Consider your holiday shopping done! After, grab a bite to eat at the scrumptious Seasons 52 or even reward yourself with a refreshing drink at Blue Martini. There is also the Broward Mall located at 8000 W Broward Blvd., Plantation.

4. Las Olas Boulevard

300 SW 1st Avenue

Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301

Well equipped with a variety of bars and clubs, one of Fort Lauderdale’s hot spots is perfect for the party audience. Whether you are looking to grab a quick bite or sip on some delicious drinks, Las Olas Boulevard has more than enough places to choose from. This includes Mango’s, Royal Pig Pub, American Social and more. The best part? This is only 10 minutes away from the Fort Lauderdale Port. But try not to enjoy those drinks too much – you have a cruise to catch, remember?

Want something a little more family friendly? Read on!

3. 15th Street Fisheries

1900 SE 15th St.

Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316

(954) 763-2777

With a beautiful ocean view, jamming live music and delicious food to die for, 15th Street Fisheries has secured a spot on our list of things to do by Fort Lauderdale Port. Located on the Intracoastal Waterway, this restaurant is most definitely one of Fort Lauderdale’s famous attractions. 15th Street Fisheries is the winner in six categories of South Florida’s Best of 2014 edition including Best Fish Dip, Best Place to Take Your Parents, Best Seafood Restaurant and more. Tarpon feeding is also available with scrimp available in the dock store.

2. Las Olas Tiki Tours

301 Seabreeze Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale, FL. 33316

Participants will board a spacious 50 foot Catamaran boat complete with a tiki roof on this fun tour. Lasting 90 minutes, the Las Olas Tiki Tours will show scenic and famous places all over Fort Lauderdale. You’ll even have a chance to wave at your cruise ship as you pass Fort Lauderdale Port! Both relaxing and fun, these tours are perfect for all ages.

1. Butterfly World

3600 W Sample Road

Coconut Creek, 33073

(954) 977- 4400

With over ten acres of aviaries and botanical gardens, Butterfly World is teeming with breathtaking plants and, of course, butterflies. Attendees will also see a wide variety of birds including canaries, hummingbirds, quails, owl finches and more. This butterfly farm and research facility is about 25 minutes away from Fort Lauderdale Port, so plan accordingly!

About Natalya Jones

My name is Natalya Jones, and I'm a writer for Parking at the Port. Interests I have include running, reading, social media and, of course, traveling. Read my blogs for more cruise ports tips and tricks!